New Jet Ski To Keep Swimmers Safe This Summer

Swimmers will be safer on one of the South Coast’s beaches this summer thanks to a new Surf Life Saving NSW (SLS NSW) jet-ski that will patrol the coastline, one of 11 to be deployed across the State.

Member for South Coast Shelley Hancock and Member for Kiama Gareth Ward today joined with representatives of South Coast Surf Life Saving to receive the new jet-ski which will be allocated to the Nowra-Culburra Surf Life Saving Branch.

Mrs Hancock said the new jet-ski – equipped with a rescue sled – will be deployed this summer thanks to $220,000 in NSW Government funding.

“The NSW Government is delivering record investments in frontline services. Whether it is our emergency services or the surf lifesavers who patrol our beaches, we are giving them the funding and the very best equipment they need to keep all of us safe,” Mrs Hancock said.

“Surf Life Saving NSW and our emergency services are working hard to prevent drownings this summer and the new jet-ski will play a key role in preventing more tragedies.

“Our lifesavers do a great job keeping swimmers safe across our spectacular beaches each year – and I’m confident this new equipment will only further support those incredible efforts.”

Member for Kiama Gareth Ward said Surf Life Saving NSW will make the operational decisions as to where along our coastline it will be needed most.

“SLS NSW began trialing the use of jet skis back in 2002, and they’ve proven to be a great success and been pivotal to thousands of rescues over the years.

“I thank all of our local Surf Life Saving volunteers and clubs for keeping us safe on our beaches and in the water over what will be a busy summer period,” Mr Ward said.

SLS NSW CEO Steve Pearce welcomed the new fleet of jet skis and said it would go a long way in supporting the organisation’s life-saving efforts this summer.

“I thank the Government for their support of our lifesavers across the State who do a wonderful job protecting beach-goers, especially over the warmer months when thousands flock to our world-class coastline,” Mr Pearce said.

“I’d also like to remind everyone to please swim between the red and yellow flags. Many coastal drownings are away from a patrolled location or after patrol hours, so make sure you learn how to spot and avoid rip currents, and don’t overestimate your abilities in the surf.”